Tag Archives mum style

#HotLikeAMother is the new blog series created by Confidently Kylie that looks to break the barriers and expectations of Motherhood. Too often we hear that when you become a mother you must conform and sacrifice who you are and become the perfect picture of a frumpy, homemaking woman of the 50’s. But I call Bull Shit. Society’s expectations often brings mothers down. Making them feel like they are no longer relevant. At Confidently Kylie, we are here to bring mothers up and inspire mums to embrace their inner fire.

In this series I will be interviewing and getting to know some of the UK’s most kick ass mums. From inspiring boss babes, to stylish fashionistas, to just damn right inspirational mothers. All in the quest to encourage mums to go for their passions and be Hot Like A Mother…….

MEET OCTOBERS HOT MUMS

Two friends, two mumpreneurs taking their passion for fashion to a whole other level. Kate and Claire are the founders and owners of up and coming personal styling service Coveted Styling. When I first met Kate and Claire I was immediately drawn to the duo. Not only for their impeccable style but also for their down to earth “mumsyness”. Their friendly nature and relatable characters immediately put me at ease and I felt like I could discuss anything and everything with them over a cup of tea. I spoke to Kate and Claire about Fashion, being a mum and their business.

Fashion is definitely one of my passions too. What made you start Coveted Styling?

Kate: Our friendship developed very quickly when we discovered we were both obsessed with fashion. We used to spend a lot of time talking to each other about clothes. About what to wear to certain parties or events we had on, that hasn’t changed! Instagram played a big part in it as we started following other stylists, loved what they did for other women and so decided to go for it. We did a styling course with The Image Consulting Company in Bristol which was brilliant. We even registered Coveted Styling while we were there!

Claire : We were both at a time in our lives where we wanted to do something for us. I was on maternity leave and Kate’s boys were at school & Nursery. We wanted to do something we love, as well as helping other women to feel good about themselves.

Both of you are mums and seem to be juggling a lot. How do you keep on top of running a business, looking stylish plus the everyday challenges of motherhood?

Kate: Sometimes I get to the end of the day and feel like I’ve achieved loads and other days I feel the total opposite! So I do try to be organised, l make a list every night of what has to be done the next day. I try to plan my outfits the night before so it’s one less thing to worry about before the madness of the school run. Also having the school uniform ironed and ready to go every morning helps but doesn’t always go to plan! That way I feel slightly in more control!

Claire: I also work Part-Time, so for me organisation is key! I like to plan my week so everyone knows whats happening and when. However we both have a strong support network that helps us out.

So many mums find it difficult to find the time to look after themselves. What are your style tips to make being fashionable effortless and accessible?

Claire : Try not to overthink it, don’t worry about following particular trends. Invest in good quality wardrobe staples that make you feel good and can be worn with lots of other items in your wardrobe.

Kate: If you don’t want to spend lots of money on the new ‘on trend’ items we suggest choosing some accessories which can update your outfits in an instant. Leopard print is huge this season but some ladies are a bit scared of it. So you could start off small with a belt or bag and see how you feel. It’s a way to be on trend without going head-to-toe if you’re not sure. Belts are a great accessory to have in your wardrobe too, whether for jeans or a dress/skirt they can really add something extra with minimal effort.

High Street or High End?

Kate: We are both fans of both. The high street is amazing and gets better all the time in terms of quality and value for money. I do love high end things such as bags and shoes though for that little bit of luxury sometimes. But the high street is fab at creating their own versions making it very accessible.

Claire: I like to invest in key staple items such as handbags, shoes & Coats. But the high street is my go-to for every day style.

Where are your favourite places to shop?

Claire: We are big online shoppers as we love the comfort of our own homes. Plus it is more convenient for busy mums like ourselves. I love ASOS has it has the variety of brands, styles, price range, shoes & accessories. I also love Topshop & Warehouse

Kate: ASOS like Claire, as they have so much and you can often buy a whole outfit from there. Their next day delivery is fab! River Island is my go-to for footwear and I love Zara and New Look for their on trend pieces without spending a fortune. But I also really love finding new brands and boutiques on instagram, buying things you maybe wont get in the normal places.

Confidently Kylie is all about being Confidently You. How do you stay confident and true to yourself when us mums tend to do everything for everyone else?

Claire : Make up! Not a full face, but a bit of concealer and highlighter to cover the eye bags! I also have short hair, so I like to make sure I give it a good blow dry. I don’t have the ease of popping it up in a Mum bun!

Kate: We have days when we don’t always feel good about ourselves. Especially if i’m a rush to get out of the house or everything is going wrong! I love make up like Claire but the one thing I can’t go without is having my nails and toes done regularly. I’ve also got back into exercise recently and it’s definitely something that gives me a boost of confidence and makes me feel good about myself!

What advice would you give to mums who feel like they have lost themselves in the whirlwind of motherhood?

Claire : Just having some me time is important, so when you get the chance you should take it! I think it’s important to take time out to do things which you did before becoming a mummy. For me that is spending time catching up on my favourite blogs, or going into town and having a look around the shops.

Kate: Try and do some of the things you did before becoming a mum. Things that always seemed so simple but not so easy now! But also just enjoy it. Now both my boys are at school I’ve realised how quickly the time has gone and I’m kind of missing the whirlwind!!

Last but not least, What are your go to style items and why?

Claire: I have about 10 variations of a Breton top in my wardrobe! I can’t get enough… they are perfect for Mum days. Can be dressed up with a maxi skirt over the weekend or pop a blazer over it. Or why not over jeans and a heel for a smarter feel. It’s a wardrobe staple which will always be in style.

Kate: My go to style items can vary quite a lot but I do like anything that can be worn every season. I just change how I wear them. In summer I lived in shirt dresses, I have quite a few from New Look! They are so easy and comfy to wear. I can carry on wearing them throughout autumn/winter with ankle boots and my leather biker jacket. But I am also a massive fan of a shacket, slogan t-shirt, cropped jeans and sneakers for everyday running about. The one thing that never changes is my obsession with cross-body handbags as they go with everything in my wardrobe!

You can check out Coveted Stylings Instagram Pagehere and their facebook page here to book them for a personal styling experience

If you would like to feature or you know someone who would be perfect for it. Then contact me at Kylie@confidentkylie.com